Clint Sin’gandu, a 22-year-old living with a physical disability in Bbondo Ward, Gwembe District, once believed that school and opportunities were beyond his reach. Living with his grandmother, who helps him with daily movement, Clint faced both physical barriers and discouragement. After failing his Grade Seven exams, the inaccessible learning facilities made him feel that continuing school was futile.
“When I failed my exams, I thought there was no point in going back to school. I felt like I didn’t belong,” Clint recalls. But when a local project promoting inclusive education and livelihoods reached his community, everything began to change. Inspired by the project’s message about the importance of education, Clint re-enrolled at Bbondo Primary School, determined to continue learning.
With support from Christian Blind MIssion CBM, the project also equipped Clint with knowledge and training on income-generating activities. Using this new knowledge, he started building a small shop to generate his own income, especially since he is often overlooked during social cash transfer registrations. “Through the trainings, I learned that with the right support and resources, I can make a difference not just for myself, but for my family and community,” he said.
Clint credits the project with changing his mindset. “Before this project, I didn’t believe I could contribute to my community because of my disability. Now I know that I have something to give, and I feel proud of what I am achieving,” he shared. Today, Clint is not only attending school but also working toward financial independence, showing that with opportunity and support, persons with disabilities can thrive and make meaningful contributions.
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